KUALA LUMPUR. Malaysia’s famous chef Datuk Redzuawan Ismail aka Chef Wan has drawn backlash online for his ‘racist’ comments on former Miss World and renowned international actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. He has been slammed on the internet for likening her to a ‘kavadi’.
Namaste Bollywood recently posted a video of the actress posing on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet on its Instagram page.
Chef Wan Mocks Aishwarya Rai’s Cannes Outfit
Commenting on the post, Chef Wan jokingly said that the actress was “carrying Kavadi on herself, heading to the Batu Cave Taipusam ceremony.”
In Hinduism, Kavadi is one of the offerings that his devotees present to Lord Muruga to show their gratitude to him after their prayers and wishes have been fulfilled. Kavadi means “carrying on the shoulder” in Tamil.
Aishwarya wore a dress by designer duo Falguni Shane Peacock for her second appearance at the Cannes Film Festival this year.
The 50-year-old wore a shimmery blue and silver gown as she walked the red carpet for the screening of acclaimed filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest feature, Kinds of Kindness, starring two-time Oscar winner Emma Stone.
The attire featured a long, weeping train and bold, dramatic shoulders decorated with metallic fringe.
Internet Slams Chef Wan For ‘Racist’ Comment
The comments from Chef Wan, 65, drew backlash from Internet users who accused him of being racist.
“You know what’s the funniest part of your comment? You’re commenting on one of the most beautiful women in the world. At your age, be modest instead of mocking others,” Instagram user @bavindhdhaivendiron said.
Another user, @brrianjohn, said: “Seriously, I did not expect this from you, Datuk. Batu Caves is in Malaysia. We are Malaysians, and you have put us down.”
“With all due respect, Datuk, I don’t think this is very nice to say. I understand you may not comprehend what she is wearing, sir, but please don’t relate it to a religious event and mock it. Did not expect this from you,” Sreeganeshnair said.